Aruma Resources (ASX:AAJ) has identified high-priority copper-gold targets at the recently acquired Bortala Copper Project in Queensland, following a review of historical exploration.
Focusing on available geochemical and geophysical data, Aruma confirmed the presence of an outcropping epithermal-like vein at the R9 target, which has returned rock chip assays of up to 1.9 grams per tonne (g/t) gold.
The company has completed initial field mapping, focusing on R9, which has identified an area of outcrop near historic workings, extending the target’s strike length to 500m.
Aruma also observed copper mineralisation in rock chip samples taken at the R9 target, which highlights the potential for a broader underlying mineralised system than indicated by historic exploration.
The company adds the uranium-rich radiometric signature of the R9 target area, coincident with gold, copper, and uranium surface geochemical anomalism, is interpreted to enhance R9’s prospectivity.
Further, the iron-oxide copper-gold (IOCG) model provides the foundation of Aruma’s planned exploration strategy at the project.
Managing Director Glenn Grayson says Bortala remains largely underexplored, but displays a “significant” target footprint, with several prospective areas.
“Having recently announced the acquisition of the Bortala Project as part of a portfolio of copper and uranium exploration projects, we are encouraged by this initial appraisal of the project,” he says.
“Notably, the presence of coincident uranium and copper-gold mineralisation underlines the project’s IOCG potential, which will be a core focus of our exploration programs.”
Aruma has completed a hyperspectral study over Bortala which helped delineate targets at the two new project areas, including the R9 target area.
Data from the study is being assessed and interpreted, with results expected to assist in uncovering mineralogical variations and potential zones of mineralisation for further on-ground exploration.
Subject to securing shareholder approval for the Bortala project acquisition, Aruma plans to begin a comprehensive surface sampling program.
The results of which, in conjunction with the results of the hyperspectral study, are expected to help define and refine Aruma’s exploration strategy at Bortala.
A detailed infill surface sampling program is planned, with follow-up ground gravity and induced polarisation surveys across the R9 target to also be conducted.
Aruma aims to define drill-ready targets for a maiden drilling program at the project, which lies in the northern area of the Mt Isa region and is interpreted as being prospective for uranium, stratiform copper-gold and IOCG mineralisation.
Write to Aaliyah Rogan at Mining.com.au
Images: Aruma Resources